Rediscover AC: The New Atlantic City Weekend Getaway

Atlantic City is back. Whether you haven’t been in a while or you just never got around to visiting, there’s no time like the present to take advantage of the hustle and bustle of the revitalized city. In fact, there’s so much to do, you could make an Atlantic City weekend getaway out of your visit.

From the newly refurbished Ocean Resort Casino and Hard Rock Atlantic City hotels to the many attractions, Atlantic City has plenty to keep you busy. Read our recommendations for a fun-filled and unforgettable weekend getaway in America’s Playground.

Where to stay

Ocean Resort Casino

Ocean Resort Casino offers high-class dining, amenities and entertainment. The former Revel Casino Hotel reopened in June 2018 after extensive renovations.

When it comes to eating, this hotel has all you need to get fueled up for your Atlantic City weekend getaway adventure. Want a sweet start to your day? Try Cereal Town; here they have all kinds of cereals, fruits and desserts on the menu, including specialties such as Unicorn Trax, made with all your favorite sugary cereals, and the #adulting, a more sensible Greek yogurt parfait.

Looking for something a bit more upscale for breakfast or brunch? At Harper’s, a view of the skyline and gardens come paired with delicious delicacies such as lemon ricotta pancakes and sticky buns overload, a cinnamon bun topped with bacon, pecans and sugar glaze. For lunch, head over to Rocco’s Italian Kitchen & Market and take home a few Italian pastries and cakes to enjoy later.

If you’re an avid golf player, you can play a few holes of golf at the resort’s – and the world’s – largest indoor Topgolf Swing Suite, which offers an interactive entertainment experience filled with simulations and TVs to watch your favorite games. If you need to relax and unwind after being out and about in Atlantic City, stop into Exhale, the in-house spa center.

Book now with AAA.

Hard Rock Atlantic City

Also reopened in June 2018, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – the former Trump Taj Mahal – will make you feel like the rock star of your Atlantic City weekend getaway the moment you walk in the lobby. If you love music, you’ll want to take advantage of the Sound of Your Stay program, a selection of unique packages that allow you to create and listen to playlists, schedule jam sessions and more. There’s even an option to get a Fender guitar and amplifier delivered right to your room.

For your food cravings, try the on-site restaurants such as the Japanese restaurant Kuro, Sugar Factory (also known as one of “The Most Instagrammed Restaurants in the United States”) and, of course, the namesake Hard Rock Cafe.

When it’s time to wind down, kick back at the Rock Spa & Salon, where you can choose from both single service and full-day experiences.

And what would a rock star be without a nice, shiny car and a full tank of gas to head back on the road again? Rocktane Gas & Wash is a convenience store, gas station and car wash all rolled into one, located just outside the hotel’s parking garage.

What to do

Now that you’ve set up shop at the hotel, you’ll need things to do for the weekend. We’ve got a few suggestions.

No visit to the Atlantic City area would be complete without seeing Lucy the Elephant, a six-story-high landmark that’s so impressive, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and one of the most beloved fixtures in Atlantic City. Visit Josephine Harron Park and hear the story behind the inspiration and the construction of it. Even the little ones will enjoy playing in the park and going through this massive sculpture.

For more family fun, you can also visit Atlantic City Aquarium at Historic Garden’s Basin, Central Pier Arcade & Speedway, the Family Fun Station and Storybook Land.

atlantic city weekend getaway lucy the elephant — Lucy the Elephant (Photo: Jim the Photographer / CC BY 2.0)

Looking to explore Atlantic City though the air? Book a flight with Red Baron Tours. These airborne tours include Atlantic City, as well as nearby cities like Ocean City and Cape May.

If you prefer to explore the city with both feet on the ground, stroll through the iconic Steel Pier. Located on the world-famous Atlantic City Boardwalk, this pier is full of little shops and eateries with typical boardwalk fare. And don’t forget about the rides! Take a spin in The Wheel and see breathtaking views of the city or ride around in the Beach Buggies. Kids will also have a blast with Dodgem Kiddie Bumper Cars. For shopping, Tanger Outlets never disappoints for great deals. Plus, AAA members get a free coupon book.

Getting hungry doing all that walking and flying around, but can’t wait to get back to the hotel? Check out Margaritaville Restaurant or Rainforest Cafe. AAA Members with a valid AAA card save 10 percent at Margaritaville and also get a 10 percent discount on food and nonalcoholic beverages at the Rainforest Cafe.

Share your Atlantic City weekend getaway tips in the comments!

FIND AND BOOK A HOTEL WITH AAA IN ATLANTIC CITY, N.J.